Light Brown Apple Moth

The light brown apple moth (LBAM), Epiphyas postvittana (Tortricidae), is a native pest of Australia and is now widely distributed in New Zealand, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and New Caledonia. Although it was reported in Hawaii in the late 1800s, LBAM was detected in in Alameda County, California on March 22, 2007.

LBAM is of particular concern because it can damage a wide range of crops and other plants. The complete “host list” contains well over 1,000 plant species and more than 250 fruits and vegetables.

USDA and CDFA are working to control and suppress LBAM to minimize its impact on agriculture production and trade.